Respiratory Care Practitioner Job Description

The Respiratory Care Practitioner collects and analyzes sputum, blood, and breath specimens to determine levels of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and other gases. Assists in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of patients with pulmonary disorders. Being a Respiratory Care Practitioner requires an associate’s degree and a credential of Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT). Also measures the lung capacity of a patient to determine if there is an impairment. In addition, Respiratory Care Practitioner may be expected to maintain a CPR certification. Typically reports to a manager. Respiratory Care Practitioner’s years of experience requirement may be unspecified. Certification and/or licensing in the position’s specialty is the main requirement.

Respiratory Care Practitioner Job Description Template

Our company is looking for a Respiratory Care Practitioner to join our team.

Responsibilities:

  • Performs routine and non-routine procedures;
  • Documents on the patient’s chart all contacts, care given, supplies and equipment used;
  • Supports and maintains a culture of safety and quality;
  • Documents all pertinent data on the patient’s medical record following completion of any service;
  • Attends education in-service programs to maintain professional competency. Obtains appropriate hospital-specific education and training;
  • Follows departmental equipment sterilization procedures;
  • Maintains thorough knowledge of hazards of oxygen therapy;
  • Maintains a thorough knowledge of all departmental forms, flow charts, logbooks and their proper usage;
  • Administers respiratory therapy treatments, understands the purpose of each and the possible side effects associated with each;
  • Follows the seven (7) medication rights and reduces the potential for medication errors;
  • Obtains and communicates accurate recordings and measurements of testing;
  • Maintains, troubleshoots, and adjusts respiratory care equipment and diagnostic equipment;
  • Performs appropriate Pulmonary Function testing in the evaluation and/or diagnosis of pulmonary and/or airway disorders for patient evaluation;
  • Collects and documents data pertinent to the interpretation of test results;
  • Provides and facilitates patient/family education. Documents patient/family response to teaching/instruction.

Requirements:

  • Demonstrated potential ability to perform the essential functions as outlined above;
  • Performs routine and non-routine procedures;
  • Instructs new patients and caregivers in treatment modalities;
  • Documents on the patient’s chart all contacts, care given, supplies and equipment used;
  • Graduate of an AMA-approved School of Respiratory Therapy;
  • Minimum requirements:Current State Respiratory Therapist Licensure;
  • Current BLS and ACLS certification;
  • Successful completion of Neonatal Resuscitation certification (PALS);
  • Specialty gas administration exposure preferred;
  • Must possess a Pa. State License to practice Respiratory Care. License must be in good standing;
  • Pediatric experience preferred. Minimum of one year hospital and critical care experience required.